…and will be outside Chiltern Edge to talk to Parents following Oxon CC invoking Purdah Rules…
Rob Wilson and John Howell, Conservative Candidates for Reading East and Henley respectively, are actively pursuing academy status for Chiltern Edge School, following the launch of a consultation into its future.
Talks have already been held with a prospective academy sponsor, which could take over the school as part of a Multi-Academy Trust, and the Department for Education, which could provide help and guidance throughout the conversion process.
Whilst no decision has been reached, and discussions are at an early stage, both Rob and John believe that viable solutions exist which would enable Chiltern Edge to remain open. Neither consider closure as a sensible option, and have called on Oxfordshire County Council to exhaust all feasible options for academy status alongside the consultation itself.
In a joint statement issued today, Rob and John said: "Upon learning of the decision of Oxfordshire County Council to consult on the future of Chiltern Edge, we immediately expressed our strongly held view that an academy sponsor be sought without delay to ensure that the school remains open.
"This case was raised as a matter of urgency with the Secretary of State for Education, and work has been undertaken to identify and consult with a potential academy sponsor. At this stage, we would not want to speak candidly about any specific details that may compromise a viable option; but would seek to reassure parents and pupils that these discussions have been positive and there appears to be scope for progression.
"We recognise and support the overwhelming resistance to any potential closure - as evidenced by the swift and substantive momentum gained by the Save Our Edge campaigners - and the pressing need to deliver certainty and stability for parents and pupils.
"Having originally intended, at the request of parents, to attend a series of meeting tomorrow evening at Chiltern Edge School, we have been advised by Oxfordshire County Council that due to restrictions applicable during the general election purdah process, they do not wish us to attend.
"If this remains the case, we will be outside the school to meet parents of all three sessions and we will hold a meeting as soon as possible so that we can discuss options, listen to questions and hear parents' views.
"We are committed to the highest standard of education for pupils from Reading East and Henley and will work with all stakeholders towards a long-term, sustainable future for Chiltern Edge."